Xander Schauffele moved closer to the lead at the US PGA Tour’s Baycurrent Classic in Japan after posting a 6-under-par 65 in the third round on Saturday. The defending champion, aiming to retain his title, finished the day at 9-under overall, four shots behind the leaders as the tournament heads into its final round in Yokohama.

Schauffele’s round was marked by significant swings in momentum, described by the American as “a weird day.” He began with a bogey on the first hole but followed with two birdies and an eagle on the par-5 fourth. A double bogey immediately after briefly set him back, but he rebounded with another eagle on the sixth hole. He closed the round with four additional birdies and one more bogey amid sunny conditions.

“If someone told me I was going to shoot 65, I’d probably take it,” Schauffele said, reflecting on a day that combined both impressive and challenging moments. The 2021 Olympic gold medalist has shown resilience in navigating the ups and downs of his round.

At the top of the leaderboard, Michael Brennan, Zach Bauchou, and Jacob Bridgeman share the lead at 13-under par. Bridgeman is pursuing his third PGA Tour victory this year. The trio holds a narrow one-stroke advantage over a group that includes Australian veteran Adam Scott.

Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama, winner of the 2021 Baycurrent Classic, is currently eight shots behind the leaders following a third-round 2-under 69. Matsuyama started strongly, recording four birdies and an eagle over the first seven holes. However, his back nine proved difficult, as he carded five bogeys and only one birdie, erasing much of his early gains.

“It was a mix of great golf and the worst golf,” Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion, commented on his uneven performance.

Meanwhile, three-time major champion Jordan Spieth carded a 3-under 68 to climb to 7-under overall, trailing the leaders by six shots. As the final round approaches, the field remains tightly contested, with several players positioned to challenge for the title in Yokohama.